From 1971 to 1991, 2p coins intended for general circulation were struck in bronze. Since 1992 they have been struck in copper-plated steel, apart from in 1998 when 2p coins were produced in bronze as well as in copper-plated steel.

115,154,000 coins of this year's mintage were copper-plated steel, and 98,676,000 were bronze.

The reverse of the coin features the Badge of the Prince of Wales: a plume of three ostrich feathers within a coronet, above the incuse German motto ICH DIEN ("I serve"). The numeral "2" is written below the badge, and and the denomination in words: TWO PENCE is written above.